5 African players at 2025 Club World Cup

By Seyi Babalola

The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, held in the United States from June 14 to July 13, marks a significant evolution from its previous format, expanding to 32 teams across six confederations, mirroring the FIFA World Cup structure.

African teams show promise but face an uphill battle against European and South American giants.

Al Ahly and Sundowns have the best shot at the knockout stages due to their experience and recent form.

The tournament has seen African Teams’ Performance in a great light, from Al Ahly draw with Inter Miami showcasing defensive resilience led by goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy to Sundowns (South Africa), securing a historic 1-0 win over Ulsan Hyundai and Ronwen Williams keeping a clean sheet the has produced great light for African players in the tournament.

Daily Sun brings to you five noteworthy African players at the ongoing 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.

1. Mohamed El Shenawy (Egypt, Al Ahly)

The experienced goalkeeper and captain of Al Ahly is noted for his calm demeanour and leadership.

He produced vital saves, including a notable save against Lionel Messi’s free kick in the opening match against Inter Miami, which finished 0-0.

With three bronze medals from previous Club World Cups, he is Africa’s most experienced player in the competition.

2. Themba Zwane (South Africa, Mamelodi Sundowns)

The 35-year-old Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder and captain has made over 400 club games and won nine domestic titles.

His vision, savvy movement, and ability to weave incisive passes make him critical to Sundowns’ chances in a challenging Group F.

3. Ronwen Williams (South Africa, Mamelodi Sundowns)

Williams, the reigning African Keeper of the Year and a 2024 Ballon d’Or contender, serves as Sundowns’ final line of defence.

He kept 30 clean sheets last season and is famed for his sweeper-keeper approach, which was crucial in Sundowns’ historic 1-0 victory over Ulsan Hyundai.

4. Youcef Belaïli (Algeria, Espérance de Tunis)

A flair-filled winger who returned to Espérance and delivered 18 goals and 16 assists in 34 games.

His dribbling, vision, and long-range threat make him a standout for Espérance, especially after their 2-0 win over LAFC

5. Iqraam Rayners (South Africa, Mamelodi Sundowns)

The Cape Town-born striker scored the decisive goal in Sundowns’ 1-0 victory over Ulsan Hyundai, earning him the Superior Player of the Match award, the first for an African player at the tournament.

His clinical finishing and dynamic play are crucial for Sundowns.

These players represent the African contingent’s talent across the four participating clubs: Al Ahly, Mamelodi Sundowns, Espérance de Tunis, and Wydad Casablanca.